The expression "all politics is local" has always carried a special place in my heart. Growing up in Chicago, I learned all about the importance of a firm handshake, good eye contact and, most of all, a Midwestern work ethic. I witnessed firsthand how legislative outcomes at City Hall and in Springfield shaped the everyday lives of my fellow citizens. So naturally, when I moved to Washington, D.C. in 2008, I was concerned to discover that a significant disconnect exists between the political discourse on Capitol Hill and the reality on the ground in communities across America.

Social Media Week is always a great time to get together and share ideas with professionals who work in social media and advocacy. NGP VAN hosted a panel with Tammy Gordon from the AARP and Scott Goodstein from Revolution Messaging yesterday.

Candidates for federal office can raise an extra $200 from their donors for the 2014 cycle. The FEC raised the contribution limits for individual donors and non-multicandidate PACs from $2,500 to $2,600 for both the primary and general elections.

We’re proud to announce that NGP VAN is a finalist for six Reed Awards! The Reed Awards, given by Campaigns and Elections Magazine, represent the latest techniques and talent in the business, so we are honored and humbled to be part of them.

It’s almost here! RootsCamp, the unconference where thousands of progressives from across the country meet up to celebrate our victories, debrief, and share strategies for the coming fights, is coming up in just a few days!

Four years ago I was exhausted and unemployed. The campaign was long, and my bed was comfy. Nonetheless, I was convinced to trek to DC to go to this un-conference. I wasn't sure it was a good idea, but hey, it was only $10, plus my Megabus fare, and what else was I going to do with my time? (Sleep. Definitely.)

To all the Democrats and progressives who put your hearts and sweat into this election: thank you. Here's something James Carville said during one of our campaigns together that nailed it: "There's a simple doctrine: outside of a person's love, the most sacred thing that they can give is their labor.